RESEARCH PROJECTS

Recognition of International Qualifications and Competencies

International Organization for Migration (IOM), Brussels, 2012-2013

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo

This project is a case study of Canada in recognition of qualifications and competencies of immigrant professionals in Canada.  

Teaching under China’s Market Economy: Five Case Studies

Education International, Brussels, 2010-2012

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo
Co-Principal investigator: Yan Guo

Co-investigator: Gulbahar Beckett, University of Cincinnati; Qing Li, University of Calgary; Linyuan Guo, University of Prince Edward Island

This study investigates changes in education under China's market economy, focusing on teachers' wellbeing, teaching and living conditions, access to professional development, and political and social status.

Citizenship and identity: An inquiry into the role of ethno-cultural organizations in Canada

Social Science and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), 2008-2012

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo

This study examines the role of ethno-cultural organizations with respect to cultural exchange and understanding, ethnic identity, inclusive citizenship, and lifelong learning.

Transnational migration in the age of globalization: Chinese Canadians in China and why did they leave Canada?  

Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, 2008-2009

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo

This study investigates the experience of Canadian diasporas in Beijing, China, particularly among those who emigrated to Canada from China many years ago and later returned.

Devaluation of Immigrants' International Credentials and Work Experience: Exploring Community Responses

University Research Grants Committee, University of Calgary, 2006-2007

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo

Research shows that many highly educated immigrants have experienced devaluation and denigration of their prior learning and work experience after immigrating to Canada. Since the issue was revealed, Canadians have been looking for solutions. This study explores how immigrant service organizations have responded to help immigrants overcome such barriers.

Developing Essential Skills: Changing Contexts and Perspectives (Workshop Grant)

Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), 2004-2005

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo

Co-investigator: Tara Fenwick, Katy Campbell, Yan Guo, Val Mayes, John Graham, Marion Jones, Adrian Blunt, and Carol Henry

The purpose of this workshop was to enhance the quantity and quality of policy-relevant research in essential skills, by bringing together researchers and key stakeholders from across Canada for discussion, information sharing and network building. Participants included representatives from seven SSHRC- funded research projects from across the country, as well as community groups, government representatives and students.

Effectiveness of Formal and Informal Processes of Learning Essential Skills: A Study of Immigrant Service Organizations

Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), 2004-2006

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo

Co-investigator:Tara Fenwick, Katy Campbell, Yan. Guo,

This study examines critically the role of voluntary organizations in delivering programs for the acquisition of essential skills to Canada’s immigrant populations in both formal and informal settings. It adopts a case study approach involving four large non-profit immigrant service organizations in Vancouver, Edmonton, and Calgary. 

Exploring the Educational Role of Immigrant Service Organizations

Prairie Centre of Excellence for Research on Immigration and Integration in the Metropolis (PCERII), 2004-2005

Principal investigator: Shibao Guo

Co-investigator: Yan. Guo,

Despite the rich immigration history and the strategic role it plays in Canada’s future, the issue of immigrant settlement and adaptation is still prominent. This research investigates the educational role of immigrant service organizations in assisting immigrants with their settlement and adaptation in Canada. The specific objectives of the study are: 1). to identify the most salient dimensions of educational programs; 2). to examine the educational purposes they serve; 3). to analyze the social contributions concerning immigrants’ settlement and adaptation; and 4). to identify the major strengths and weaknesses facing the programs. 

Chinese Leaver-Stayer Project

Centre of Excellence for Research on Immigration and Integration in the Metropolis (RIIM), Simon Fraser University, 2003-2006

Principal investigator: Don J. DeVoretz

Co-investigator: Shibao Guo

The 2001 Census of Canada reveals that Canada’s population is becoming increasingly ethno-culturally diverse, and that the Chinese has become the largest visible minority group in Canada. While many Chinese permanently settle down in Canada, an increasing number of them are returning “home.” The question is “Why?” This study examines the underlying forces that influence the “move-stay” decision for Chinese immigrants in Canada.